Detroit in September

May through October gives you the best weather and outdoor festival season. Summers get warm but rarely oppressive - perfect for rooftop bars and Eastern Market browsing. September offers ideal temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter hits hard with snow and bitter cold, but hotel rates drop 40% and you'll have museums mostly to yourself. Spring arrives late but brings the Detroit Auto Show (moved to June in recent years) and opening of outdoor patios. Fall colors peak in mid-October, and it's prime time for Detroit's music venues before winter hibernation. Avoid January and February unless you're comfortable with sub-freezing temperatures and limited outdoor activities.